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. 2021 Oct 29;70(43):1509–1512. doi: 10.15585/mmwr.mm7043a4

TABLE 1. Definitions for interpreting children's blood lead levels — United States, 1960–2021.

Year Blood lead level (μg/dL) Interpretation*
1960
60
NA
1970
40
Undue or increased lead absorption
1975
30
Undue or increased lead absorption
1978
30
Elevated blood lead level
1985
25
Elevated blood lead level
1991
10
Level of concern
2012
5
Reference value
2021 3.5 Reference value

Abbreviation: NA = not available.

* https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/61820